Iatrogenic Bowel Perforation Secondary To Surgical Drain After Cholecystectomy: A Case Report With Review Of Literature

Abstract

Intraperitoneal drains after cholecystectomy are indicated only if the surgeon is concerned about identifying or controlling a possible bile leak and/or haemorrhage. In spite of infrequency, complications secondary to placement of these surgical drains occur. Herein we report a case of iatrogenic jejunal perforation caused by soft rubber tube drain, reinserted after accidental pullout, in a 29-year-old female who underwent an open cholecystectomy for gallstones. The patient was successfully managed by primary repair of the perforated jejunum. The possibility of bowel injury should be kept in mind when draining the abdominal cavity after surgery. In any case, blind insertion or reinsertion of the intraperitoneal drain must be discouraged in order to avoid inadvertent injury to the vital organs. Our review of literature revealed twelve cases of bowel perforations occurring due to a drainage system; six to closed suction drains, and six to open drainage tubes.